Illegal RHD, LHD conversions seized in Talisay

The National Bureau of Investigation Central Visayas Regional Office (NBI-CEVRO) seized 84 vehicles — including 71 right-hand drive (RHD) units and 13 illegally converted left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles — during a raid in Talisay City on 9 June 2025.

The operation stemmed from a complaint filed by the Land Transportation Office Region 7 (LTO-7), which alleged the illegal importation and distribution of RHD vehicles in violation of Republic Act 8506, the law that bans right-hand drive vehicles in the Philippines unless properly authorized.

LTO-7 Regional Director Glen G. Galario sought NBI assistance, prompting an investigation into Luz Japan Limited Corporation. Special Agent Wenceslao L. Galendez Jr. later secured a search warrant from Regional Trial Court Branch 23 Judge Jennifer Karen A. Leyson, enabling agents to raid the company’s display yard along South Road Project Highway in Barangay San Isidro, Talisay City.

A Peruvian national, Luz Hilda Baldeon Carhuallanqui, identified herself as one of the owners of the vehicles during the operation.

According to the NBI, the illegal importation had already been completed before the raid, making Carhuallanqui and other company incorporators liable under RA 8506. The seized vehicles have since been impounded at the LTO-7 compound pending legal action.

NBI-CEVRO Regional Director Rennan Augustus T. Oliva confirmed that charges will be filed directly against Carhuallanqui and other parties involved.

The raid was conducted in coordination with the Bureau of Immigration, Bureau of Customs, and the Philippine National Police.

Authorities reminded the public that RHD vehicles, unless officially converted and registered, are prohibited due to the safety risks they pose on Philippine roads, where left-hand traffic is observed. RA 8506 was enacted to prevent vehicle smuggling and ensure compliance with road safety regulations.